Monster Mash Popcorn Balls (Print-Friendly Version)
Sweet and salty popcorn balls decorated for spooky fun. Great Halloween treat with candy, sprinkles, and chocolate.
# What You'll Need:
→ Popcorn Base
01 -
12 cups freshly popped plain popcorn
→ Syrup Mixture
02 -
1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup light corn syrup
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1/4 cup unsalted butter
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1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 -
Food colouring, optional
→ Decorative Toppings
08 -
Assorted candy eyes
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Assorted sprinkles
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Mini pretzels, broken into pieces
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Gummy worms
12 -
Additional edible decorations as desired
# How to Make It:
01 -
Place the freshly popped popcorn in a large heatproof mixing bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
02 -
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, unsalted butter, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring gently, until mixture comes to a boil.
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Let syrup boil undisturbed for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and food colouring if using.
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Immediately pour the hot syrup over the popcorn. Stir thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon to coat all kernels evenly.
05 -
Allow the coated popcorn to cool for several minutes until just warm and safe to handle. With lightly greased hands, form the mixture into baseball-sized balls. Press in candy eyes, sprinkles, mini pretzel pieces, gummy worms, and other decorations.
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Arrange popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely. Serve or wrap individually in plastic for storage.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
To prevent sticking, lightly oil your hands before shaping the popcorn balls.
02 -
Experiment with different colours or candies for a unique festive appearance.